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26 August 2018

About Restaurant Fire Suppression Systems

By Carolyn Green


Fire is one of the worst hazards in any environment. The kitchen is the center of any restaurant. It is also the most likely area that a fire can occur in a restaurant setup. It is of great importance that owners of such businesses ensure they have restaurant fire suppression systems installed. This is a sure step that reduces the damage that fire brings. The systems should be installed, inspected and maintained on a regular basis or as required.

Restaurants that install such systems usually reduce their risk consideration in insurance as well as reducing the fire risk. Insurance companies that cover such businesses look at this as a mandatory requirement in order to provide them with the cover they need. Some of the local and health departments also list this as a basic requirement before a licence can be issued.

In the absence of a fire control measure, the business can be considered a high-risk client. In this case, instead of paying the standard premium, the premium can be increased by up to 300%. This is dependent on the insurer evaluation of the fire risk.

The fire suppression systems helps keep fires in control. It does this by focusing on the area at risk and avoids disrupting the operations of the whole kitchen, It is therefore possible for customers not to be disturbed or get to know about the fire. The staff easily clean up and resume their operations in record time.

It is important that the staff receive proper training on how to prevent fires. They should be trained on what to look out for and ensure the equipment and power cords do not present any risk. The proper outfits should be encouraged to reduce the chances of fire. A proper reporting procedure should be communicated to all and followed in the case an issue is noted that may cause a fire.

It is not only important to have routine inspections of the fire systems and the equipment in the kitchen. Prevention is key but practice is even better. Routine fire drills should be carried out among all staff in the restaurant so that each and every one is well aware of his or her part in the event of a fire. Doors and exits should be properly marked to avoid confusion in the case of emergency evacuations.

The presence of a fire suppression system also gives comfort to the staff in the restaurant as their safety is taken care of. It not only protects the staff but also protects the property and the entire investment. In its absence, a fire can get out of control and create a negative impact that affects anyone involved in the business and its environs.

With the system installed, the revenue of the business is protected. A long term closure brought about by a fire outbreak is avoided. Staff get to retain their jobs while customers loyalty is maintained. More importantly in this era of social media where bad news travel fast, the business reputation is protected.




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